Few professions can match the wealth of options social work offers. US News & World Report’s annual tally lists social work as one of the “best jobs” for the future. As one of the most versatile and in-demand human service professions, Valparaiso University’s Social Work Department is looking for you…

if you are a caring and compassionate person who is searching for how to use your creativity to make a difference in the lives of others.

if you believe in the capacity of people, institutions, and society to change for the better.

if you are motivated by a strong sense of social and economic justice and want to promote the success and well-being of all people.

if you desire a career working with diverse people that provides meaning, purpose, vision, satisfaction, and an abundance of life–enhancing opportunities for both you and the people you serve.

Social work is a profession of highly trained professionals who care about people, want to foster success in others, and alleviate suffering in tangible ways. Whether it’s in the classroom, community, or around the globe, our student’s and graduates use their compassionate, skilled, and creative selves to change lives in ways they never imagined. We teach talented people to better help others in need, one person, one family, one community at a time. We cultivate leaders and behind-the-scenes movers and shakers that help effect meaningful change in people’s lives. We invite caring individuals to live out their calling and integrate their faith with practical tools that truly make a difference. As social work professionals with a strong desire to improve people’s lives, we aim to:

On-site supervised and educationally directed social work internships are the cornerstone of our practice oriented profession. In VU’s Social Work program we are all about empowering you to know who you are, what you are capable of doing, and providing you with the knowledge, values, and skills to do it.

In VU’s Social Work program, our expectations are high. We provide a rigorous and stimulating educational environment characterized by a dynamic, supportive interchange between faculty and students. Engaging learning experiences are designed to prepare students to excel as entry level generalist practitioners. In the classroom and in the world, our students thrive.